Realistically, Norton is in control and the narrator is being driven to conform to his expectations. While the narrator exaggerates his importance as Norton's driver, the only power he has is that which Norton bestows on him. Although the narrator is driving, he is not in control and the car he is driving is not his own. Symbolizing power, the car is a key element in these chapters. This quandary is highlighted by the vet's reference to Hester, the prostitute, as 'a great humanitarian' whose 'healing touch' enables the vets to cope with their broken, empty lives, while the 'real' humanitarian - Norton - is likened to 'a formless white death.' The two chapters also challenge us to consider what is more normal: A bar in which crazy people, openly expressing their feelings, dare to challenge a corrupt system that denies them the right to lead dignified, productive lives or a college that fosters and perpetuates the racist myth of white supremacy, while purporting to prepare its black students to become productive members of society. As the narrator leaves, he feels somewhat reassured by Norton, but apprehensive about his impending meeting with Bledsoe and his mandatory attendance at chapel.Ĭhapters 3 and 4 contrast the chaos and violence at the Golden Day with the apparent order and tranquility at the college campus. This seems to please Norton, who comments on the virtues of Emerson's philosophy of self-reliance, then reminds the narrator about his meeting with Bledsoe. Disappointed that his offer is refused, the narrator assures Norton that he intends to read the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson. After apologizing to Norton again, the narrator offers to drive him to the station. Arriving at Bledsoe's office, the narrator is surprised to see Norton, who informs him that Bledsoe had to leave. Back in his room, the narrator is interrupted by a freshman who tells him that Bledsoe wants to see him. On Norton's recommendation, Bledsoe dismisses the narrator and orders him to attend chapel that evening. Moments later, he is equally shocked as he watches Bledsoe undergo an astounding transformation as he masks his anger and assumes an attitude of conciliation and servility as he prepares to meet with Norton. After briefly describing their misadventures and informing Bledsoe that Norton wants to see him, the narrator is shocked and bewildered by Bledsoe's angry outburst that the narrator should have known better than to take Norton to see Trueblood's quarters, regardless of his request. Inside, Norton is propositioned by a prostitute, insulted by a veteran, and overwhelmed by the 'inmates' - institutionalized war veterans who fill the bar.Īfter the narrator and Norton witness the chaotic events at the Golden Day, including the brutal beating of the veteran's attendant, Supercargo, the narrator finally manages to get a distraught Norton - collapsed under the strain of being in a situation where he has no control - back into the car, and the two head back to the college campus.Īfter dropping Norton off at his rooms, the narrator heads back to the administration building to see Bledsoe. Big Halley, the bartender, refuses to let the narrator take a drink outside to Norton. Norton's request for whiskey, the narrator arrives at the Golden Day, a disreputable bar on the outskirts of the college community.

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